Mexican Players Transition to MLS for 2025 Season

The 2025 MLS season sees a significant drop in Mexican players, with top talents like Hirving Lozano making a splash at San Diego FC. What does this mean for the future?


Mexican Players Transition to MLS for 2025 Season

The future of the young 19-year-old midfielder looks promising, as he is being sought after by clubs in the Eredivisie. The presence of Mexican footballers in MLS has seen a significant decline compared to last year, when there were seven prominent players such as Alan Pulido, Héctor Herrera, and Omar Campos. These players returned to Liga MX for the current season with Chivas, Toluca, and Cruz Azul, respectively.

In 2021, the presence of Mexican players in the American league reached its peak for the 21st century, with a total of 13 footballers. Figures like Jonathan dos Santos, Jürgen Damm, Javier Hernández, Carlos Vela, Alan Pulido, and Rodolfo Pizarro stood out that season. However, for the new MLS championship, the number of Mexicans has decreased significantly.

Mexican players have migrated to MLS mainly for two reasons. Firstly, the salaries offered to them in the United States far exceed what they would receive in Mexico, especially for stars who have excelled in European leagues like Hirving Lozano or Chicharito. Furthermore, some footballers see MLS as an opportunity to continue their careers after failing in Mexican football, such as in the case of Daniel Ríos.

The 2025 MLS season will start on February 22 with few players born in Mexico. Among the Mexicans in the league, Hirving Lozano stands out, who recently signed with San Diego FC, becoming the star of the team after his time at PSV and Napoli in Europe. The Californian club also added Mexican goalkeeper Pablo Sisniega, while Daniel Ríos will play for Vancouver Whitecaps in search of regaining his level.

Additionally, Obed Vargas, although born in Alaska, will be the only Mexican-American in the league who has chosen to represent the Mexican national team. Although the presence of Mexicans in MLS has declined, the arrival of players like Lozano and the retention of others in American clubs keep the connection between Mexican football and the North American league alive.